The primary focus of the meeting was the proposed demolition of the historic resource on Hiawatha Avenue. The site, historically significant for its role in Minneapolis’s milling industry, was the subject of a detailed staff report presented by Erin Que, a Senior City Planner. Que emphasized the property’s eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places, citing its construction methods, age, and historical context as contributing factors. The building, originally the Minneapolis Glass Company factory, later played a role during the city’s peak flour milling period from 1930 to 1980.

Despite its historical value, the applicant argued for demolition, citing financial burdens, including annual security costs of approximately half a million dollars due to issues like graffiti and urban exploration. The applicant suggested that removing the structure would eliminate these problems and pave the way for new housing development, which they estimated could include 240 units. However, this proposal met with resistance from commissioners and the public, who stressed the importance of preserving Minneapolis’s heritage.

One resident advocated for retaining aspects of the historic mill, emphasizing the need for historical representation in the neighborhood. Conversely, another speaker suggested that enough had already been done to honor the city’s milling history and called for a focus on future developments. Commissioner Wallace highlighted the absence of a comprehensive housing plan, expressing concern that without one, the area might suffer economically if the proposed development did not materialize as intended.

The commission discussed the feasibility of adaptive reuse, noting successful transformations of similar structures into housing and community spaces. Alternative proposals included retaining parts of the mill or creating a commemorative park to honor the site’s historical significance. Several commissioners expressed a desire to integrate historical elements into new developments rather than demolishing them outright.

The vote on the demolition request was narrowly split, with five in favor and four against, ultimately approving the motion contingent upon the submission of a mitigation plan. This plan would require the applicant to document or recognize the site’s history through methods such as the Historic American Buildings Survey or collaboration with the Minnesota Historical Society.

After addressing the demolition request, the commission proceeded with the election of officers for 2025. Commissioner Bjornberg was nominated and unanimously supported as chair, with Commissioner Mastin as vice chair and Commissioner Mellblom as secretary.

In other business, staff member Andrea Burke provided updates on the appeal of a demolition on Washburn Avenue North, which had been granted. She also announced the cancellation of the February 18th meeting and requested volunteers from the commission for the upcoming Minneapolis Preservation Awards. Burke highlighted the ongoing Minneapolis African American Cultural Context Project and encouraged participation in reviewing a significant draft document related to the project.